Email Updates
To work well, behavioral health integration and medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid use disorder (OUD) require teams. Success stories are a great way to learn from the experiences of others. In this process, we can learn a great deal from stakeholders, including providers, patients, payers, policymakers, health information technology (health IT) specialists, and others.
Case Studies of Health Information Technology for Behavioral Health Integration
Health IT tools ranging from shared electronic medical records to patient registries can help facilitate the integration of behavioral health in primary care. Health IT helps providers communicate and can promote systematic screenings through clinical decision support mechanisms.
These AHRQ Academy case studies are real-world examples of health systems and group practices that have adopted Health IT tools for integrative purposes. The Academy hopes the challenges and successes described can guide practices in their efforts to integrate behavioral health in primary care.
Patient Success Stories
Integrated behavioral health care is whole-person care. It is patient-centered and addresses the full range of a person’s medical and behavioral health needs, culture, values, and preferences. It helps patients become active in their own care. The Academy shares some of the available perspectives from patients who have experienced integrated behavioral health care and MAT for OUD.
- Daniel's Story: An Introduction to Collaborative Care (From The AIMS Center at the University of Washington)
Integration Team Profiles and Stories
The experiences of providers and other members of the integrated care team also help us understand the process, benefits, and rewards of implementing integrated behavioral health care. The Academy shares profiles of integrated behavioral health care team members and their experiences.
AIMS Center at the University of Washington Provider Profiles:
- Provider Spotlight: Crystal Wong, M.D. (Primary Care Provider)
- Care Manager Spotlight: Monica Miller (Social Worker)
- Psychiatric Consultant Spotlight: Wayne Bentham (Psychiatrist)
